Team of pit masters from Monterrey, Mexico, looks to compete in annual Rodeo cookoff

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Cookoff draws teams from across the globe to compete, and this weekend, the sole Mexican team of pit masters is showcasing their skills on day two of the cookoff.

Hailing from Monterrey, Mexico, the Rivs Grill team is aiming to repeat their historical success. In 2022, they secured third place overall, and they’re eager for another strong showing this year.

Alma Blanco, a pit master and content creator, emphasized the significance of their presence, stating that merely participating in such a prestigious event is a victory in itself.

“Regardless of the outcome, we’re thrilled to be part of the festivities,” Alma Blanco expressed. “As the lone Mexican team, just being here feels like a triumph.”

Alma, leveraging her role as a content creator, collaborated with city leaders through Hola Houston, a division of Houston’s tourism group, Houston First, to document their journey from Monterrey to the Space City. Their aim is to promote tourism and attract more visitors to Houston.

In 2023, Houston welcomed over 2.5 million international visitors, injecting a substantial $14 billion into the local economy, as reported by HoustonFirst.